Northland Construction Supplies

Schluter-DECO finishes and protects the edges of tiled surfaces at transitions to other surface coverings of the same height, such as wood or carpet. The exposed surface of the Schluter-DECO is wider than the Schluter-SCHIENE and can also be used to create decorative lines within tile fields.Schluter-Deco has a 1/4" (6 mm) -wide visible surface for creating decorative joint designs in tiled surfaces.

Application and Function

Schluter-DECO is designed to provide decorative lines within tile coverings and edge protection at transitions from tile coverings to other same-height surface coverings, such as wood or carpet.

The profile is available in stainless steel, solid brass, chrome-plated solid brass, and anodized aluminum. Schluter-DECO features a trapezoid-perforated anchoring leg, which is secured in the mortar bond coat beneath the tile, and a 1/4" (6 mm) wide visible surface that meets the high aesthetic requirements of showrooms, lobbies, galleries, exhibition booths, etc.

The anchoring leg of Schluter-DECO, in solid brass, chrome-plated brass, and anodized aluminum, is available with a special radius perforation "R" so that the profile can be used to form curves. DECO in chrome plated brass requires a relatively large bending radius.

Installation

1. Select Schluter-DECO according to tile thickness.
2. Using a notched trowel, apply thin-set mortar to the area where the profile is to be placed.
3. Press the perforated anchoring leg of the profile into the mortar and align.
4. Trowel additional thin-set mortar over the perforated anchoring leg to ensure full coverage and support of the tile edges.
5. Solidly embed the tiles so that the tiled surface is flush with the top of the profile; the profile should not be higher than the tiled surface, but rather up to approx. 1/32" (1 mm) lower.
6. A joint of approximately 1/16" - 1/8" (1.5 - 3 mm) should be left between the tile and the profile.
7. Fill the joint completely with grout or setting material.

Material Properties and Areas of Application

Schluter-DECO is available in stainless steel, solid brass, chrome-plated solid brass, and anodized aluminum.
 

In special cases, the suitability of a proposed type of material must be verified based on the anticipated chemical, mechanical, and/or other stresses.

Schluter-DECO, in Stainless Steel, is rollformed using 304 (1.4301 = V2A) stainless steel. Therefore, the profile’s contour differs slightly from those made of extruded brass or aluminum. The profile can sustain high mechanical stresses and is especially well suited for applications requiring resistance against chemicals and acids; for example, in the food industry, breweries, dairies, commercial kitchens, public swimming pools, and hospitals.

Schluter-DECO, in Solid Brass, is capable of withstanding high mechanical stresses and is resistant to most chemicals encountered in tiled environments. Solid brass that is exposed to air will oxidize, resulting in a natural patina. If exposed to moisture or aggressive substances, heavy oxidation and spotting may occur.

Schluter-DECO, in Anodized Aluminum, must be tested to verify its suitability if chemical exposure is expected. Cementitious materials, in conjunction with moisture, become alkaline. Since aluminum is sensitive to alkaline substances, exposure to the alkali (depending on the concentration and duration of exposure) may result in corrosion (aluminum hydroxide formation). Therefore, it is important to remove mortar or grout residue from visible surfaces. In addition, ensure that the profile is solidly embedded in the setting material and that all cavities are filled to prevent the collection of alkaline water. The anodized surface layer retains a uniform appearance during normal use, but must be protected against abrasion. 

Maintenance

Schluter-DECO requires no special maintenance or care and is resistant to mold and fungi. Clean profile using common household cleaning agents.

Stainless steel surfaces exposed to the environment or aggressive substances should be cleaned periodically using a mild household cleaner. Regular cleaning maintains the neat appearance of stainless steel and reduces the risk of corrosion. All cleaning agents must be free of hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acid. Stainless steel surfaces develop a sheen when treated with a chrome-polishing agent.

Oxidation films on exposed solid brass can be removed by using a conventional polishing agent, but will form again.

In the case of chrome-plated solid brass or anodized aluminum, do not use abrasive cleaning agents. Damage to the anodized layer can be repaired by applying varnish.